AP Environmental Science Flashcards: Sustainable Agriculture
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
A farmer's soil test reveals it is too acidic. Which soil fertility additive mentioned would help correct this issue?
The addition of limestone would help improve soil fertility by neutralizing acidic soil.
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A farmer's soil test reveals it is too acidic. Which soil fertility additive mentioned would help correct this issue?
The addition of limestone would help improve soil fertility by neutralizing acidic soil.
To prevent wind from eroding topsoil in a flat, open field, what method involving planting could a farmer use?
The farmer could use windbreaks, which involves planting trees or shrubs in rows to block the wind and reduce soil erosion.
Explain the purpose of contour plowing.
Contour plowing is a soil conservation practice where farmers plow and plant across a slope, following its elevation contour lines, to slow water runoff and prevent erosion.
What is strip cropping?
Strip cropping is a soil conservation method that involves growing different crops in alternating strips or bands to prevent soil erosion.
What is rotational grazing?
Rotational grazing is the regular rotation of livestock between different pastures to avoid overgrazing in a particular area.
What is no-till agriculture?
No-till agriculture is a soil conservation method where crops are grown without disturbing the soil through tillage, which helps prevent erosion.
How do perennial crops contribute to soil conservation?
Perennial crops help prevent soil erosion because their roots remain in the ground year-round, holding the soil in place.
Identify two distinct strategies used to improve soil fertility.
Two strategies to improve soil fertility are crop rotation and the addition of green manure and/or limestone.
A farmer on a steep hillside creates a series of flat, step-like sections to plant crops. Which soil conservation method is being used?
This farmer is using terracing, a method that slows water runoff and prevents soil erosion on sloped land.
What is the primary goal of soil conservation?
The goal of soil conservation is to prevent soil erosion, which is the wearing away of topsoil.